Rose-Maree Couch and her three-year-old daughter Sapphire-Hope Couch died after the fire at a Whitehall St, Mairehau, home on May 14.
Sapphire-Hope died at the scene, while her mother was taken to hospital and died from her injuries the next day.
Their funeral was held Linwood Crematorium on Thursday. The service began with a pōwhiri as family members carried the mother and daughter in together.
They will be buried together. Rose-Maree’s parents, Shiree and Neville, spoke at the funeral.
“She had empathy for people, she didn’t like to think of anybody hurting, or anything being wrong,” Shiree said.
“It shouldn’t have to be this way. I would gladly take their place,” Neville said.
They said Sapphire-Hope was “their little beacon of shining light”.
“Sapphy was our sassy baby, she would stand there and say ‘don’t laugh at me Nanny’,” Shiree said.
“Sapphy had an infectious smile that could light up any room. She was full of personality, definitely the boss among her siblings, and had so much sass.
“She loved spending one-on-one time with her parents, especially cuddles and sneaking treats from the chocolate stash.
“Rose was deeply loved by her family, friends, and the wider community.
“She had a heart of gold and was always there to offer support, kindness, or a listening ear to anyone in need.
“Gentle and quiet by nature, she was also fiercely protective of her children and devoted to those she loved.”
The family praised Shane Hall, the father of two of the surviving children.
“Words cannot truly express how grateful we are. In our eyes, you are a hero,” the statement read.
“Please know how deeply we love and appreciate you, and that we will always stand beside you and support you through this time.
“This has been an incredibly difficult time for our whānau, and we are still coming to terms with this sudden and devastating loss.
“Rose’s parents Shiree and Neville are also facing the heartbreaking loss of their precious daughter and granddaughter.”
The family thanked emergency services, including police, fire crews, ambulance staff, ICU teams and the Children’s High Dependency Unit for their care and dedication.
“We would also like to thank Nancy and the Christchurch Methodist Mission, who have supported everyone affected by the fire by helping provide clothing, bedding, and other essentials for Jay, Shane, the four children, and Rose-Maree’s mother.”
The family thanked the community for their donations to a Givealittle page set up after the tragedy.
- Allied Media
